Chautauqua County Soil Data
Chautauqua County, Kansas
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty Clay Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
2.7%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Chautauqua County, Kansas
Acidic Foundations in the Cross Timbers
With an average pH of 6.30, Chautauqua County soils are more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the Kansas average of 6.80. This acidity can influence nutrient availability, though the county's overall soil score of 63.5 remains well above the state average. Although taxonomic orders aren't specified in the data, the chemistry suggests a unique local profile.
A Rich Blend of Silt and Clay
The soil mix consists of 54.4% silt and 29.3% clay, balanced by 16.3% sand. This composition offers a good middle ground for workability, providing better drainage than neighboring heavy-clay counties while retaining enough silt for stability. It is a dense mix that supports strong root structures but requires attention to drainage.
High Organic Matter for Strong Growth
Chautauqua boasts 2.74% organic matter, outperforming the Kansas state average of 2.22%. However, its available water capacity of 0.178 in/in is just a hair below the state average of 0.180 in/in. This means while the soil is naturally rich in nutrients, it may require more frequent watering during intense Kansas summers.
Moderate Water Retention Profiles
Despite a lack of specific drainage class data, the soil's physical makeup suggests a moderate infiltration rate. The available water capacity is nearly on par with the state average, indicating reliable but not exceptional moisture storage. Gardeners should monitor for dry pockets in the upper profile during the peak of the growing season.
Warm-Season Success in Zone 7a
As part of USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, Chautauqua County offers a longer growing season than much of Kansas. The slightly acidic, silty soil is perfect for berries, melons, and native timber species. Start your garden early and take advantage of the rich organic matter already present in your soil.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty Clay Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Chautauqua County have?
Chautauqua County's soil is classified as Silty Clay Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 54% silt, and 29% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Chautauqua County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Chautauqua County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Chautauqua County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Chautauqua County.
What crops or plants grow well in Chautauqua County's soil?
Based on Chautauqua County's Silty Clay Loam texture, pH of 6.3, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Chautauqua County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Chautauqua County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Chautauqua County
Soil Verdict
Chautauqua County is in USDA hardiness zone 7a, a moderate climate zone. where winter lows can reach 0°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Chautauqua County is somewhat warmer than the Kansas statewide average.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Chautauqua County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Kansas
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.